The place where your child does his homework is unique to your family and your home’s layout. Following are some general guidelines to follow:

1. It is quiet.
2. There are no things that take attention away from working.
3. There is good light.
4. The temperature is comfortable.
5. There is a comfortable chair.
6. It contains all needed work materials.
7. It contains all needed reference sources.
8. It contains a desk or table large enough to work at comfortably.
9. It contains enough storage space.
10. It can be used whenever needed.

Wherever your child works, you should be able to check to see if he is sticking to the task at hand, especially if he has challenges with focus and concentration, and to be able to offer him encouragement. Above all, avoid doing your child’s homework for him as this may lead to him developing learned helplessness (by all means, read instructions to him or scribe his verbal responses if these accommodations are appropriate).

Want a clear strategy to head off homework battles, build your child’s self esteem and successfully navigate the Ontario school system? Click here.